Diabetes information | type 1 University

The “Other” Treatments for T1D

Instructor:

Instructor:

Alicia Downs, RN, MSN, CDCES

Insulin is not the only medical treatment for type-1 diabetes.  With a multitude of hormonal and physiological factors affecting glucose levels, there are several types of medications that can be used to supplement insulin.  Some of these ancillary treatments, such as pramlintide, are approved for use by people with type-1 diabetes.  Others are intended for those with Type-2 diabetes, but can be prescribed “off-label” for people with Type-1.  In addition to helping stabilize blood glucose levels, a number of these medications offer side-benefits such as weight loss, cardiovascular risk reduction, and prevention of some diabetes complications.  This session covers the mechanism of action of these medications, along with benefits and side-effects so that you can make an educated decision about what might work for you.

Specific topics include:

  • Amylin replacement therapy
  • Metformin
  • GLP-1 receptor agonists
  • SGLT-2 inhibitors
  • Statins & ace inhibitors
  • Discussing off-label meds with your prescriber
  • Overcoming challenges to insurance coverage
  • Over-the-counter options

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Placement Exam: The “Other” Treatments for T1D

1. In addition to helping lower blood pressure, what is another benefit of ace inhibitors?

A. Reduced LDL cholesterol

B. Reduced protein excretion by the kidneys

C. Increased HDL cholesterol

D. Improved blood flow to the heart muscle

2. Which is not caused by the amylin hormone?

A. Blocked absorption of glucose through the intestines

B. Diminished appetite

C. Blocked production of glucagon by the pancreas

D. Slower gastric (stomach) emptying into the intestines

3. How do SGLT-2 inhibitors help to produce weight loss?

A. By increasing the excretion of protein in the urine

B. By diminishing appetite

C. By increasing the excretion of glucose in the urine

D. By accelerating fat metabolism

4. Side-effects of metformin include:

A. Mild nausea

B. Increased urination

C. Increased basal insulin requirements

D. Metformin has no known side-effects

5. Which medication is most effective for reducing post-meal blood sugar spikes?

A. Metformin

B. Amylin (Symlin)

C. GLP-1 receptor agonists

D. SGLT-2 inhibitors

E. Statin therapy

Answers: B, A, C, A, B

  • Answered 4 or 5 correctly?  Nice job, Professor!  Looks like you know your stuff.  Maybe you could teach a course on this subject! But there are always new things to learn.
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